Top Spots for Bird Watching in Rwanda: Rwanda, the “Land of a Thousand Hills” is not only an attractive place for tourists because of plenty of beautiful hills, unusual wildlife, and unique bird species. Currently, Rwanda boasts of more than 700 known bird species, some of which are endemic to the country or, at best, migratory species. This article takes you through the Rwanda Bird Watching Tour, where to go, what exactly to look out for, even the best time for this activity, and how to make the most of your Bird Watching experience.
Why Birdwatching in Rwanda?
Rwanda has adherent bird populations due to the strategic position of this nation and also different ecological zones. Ranging from the montane forests and wetlands of the Albertine Rift to the savanna and lakes, this diverse region offers habitat for a rich bird assemblage. There are many geological oddities or endemics including Rwenzori turaco and Albertine rift endemic species which make it a Mecca for ornithologists.
Top Spots for Bird Watching in Rwanda
- Akagera National Park
stretching towards the east of Rwanda, Akagera National Park is characterized by savanna and wetland biome. Among the bird species, there are the easily recognizable African fish eagle and the beautiful Shoebill stork as well as water birds. Bird watching is well done around Lake Akagera since many of the birds can be spotted while taking a boat ride. It is Hence, most effective to watch the birds in the early morning as they are more active during these times.
- Nyungwe Forest National Park
This is not only the oldest rainforest in consideration but also possesses more than 300 species of birds and therefore is counted among the finest places for bird viewing in Africa. It supports several other endemics such as Rwenzori batis and Neumann’s warbler among many others. Bird watchers may find the canopy walkway interesting as it provides them with a good platform from where they observe birds up close together with their spends. Educational bird-watching tours are offered to make you enjoy the tropical birds and understand the existing forest system.
- Volcanoes National Park
Apart from mountain gorillas, the Volcanoes National Park is an excellent destination for bird watching. These include golden-winged sunbird bird and blue-headed coucal among the many that the park hosts with over 200 bird species in the park’s various habitats. It is done along the trails from where a Rwanda gorilla tour starts and ends in case one is interested in bird watching in Rwanda. There is usually unfixed breeding so bird watching can highest be done in this park during the wet season when there are many chicks.
- Lake Kivu
There are no better bird-watching details for this area because the bird-watching experience is markedly different from other sites because it offers a range of freshwater bird habitats such as wetlands, islands, and shorelines. The following waterbirds are often sighted in the lake including the white-breasted cormorant, the great egret, and any of the kingfishers. Boat riding is also one of the best methods of spotting the birds and at the same time enjoying the pristine beauty of highland hills.
- Gishwati-Mukura National Park
This relatively unknown park is a birding paradise and hosts Montane/sub-montane forests. It supports many bird species among which one can mention the Grauer’s swamp warbler categorized as critically endangered; forest birds, etc. Best time to bird watch here is in the morning, and guided walks will improve the chances of sighting the lesser-known species.
Best Times for Birdwatching in Rwanda
In fact, there is a consensus that bird watching in Rwanda is generally best done during the two rainy season periods namely; March-May, October-December. In these months there are many visitors among birds, migratory birds, and many types of avifauna are more progressive. The forest also enhances the easy sighting of birds because of the high density of vegetation. Unlike some other African countries, Rwanda maintains good weather, which makes it possible to practice bird-watching all through the year.
Tips for a Successful Birdwatching Experience
– Bring Binoculars and a Field Guide: Bird watching requires good binoculars because you have to view the bird from a distance; preferably a pocket binocular. Further, again, it is vital to note that carrying a field guide or a bird identification application can enable you to learn more of the variety.
– Dress Appropriately: These guidelines have advised that one should dress gently in dull colors to avoid chasing or interfering with the birds. Solid shoes should also be worn since the area has some rough surfaces.
– Be Patient and Quiet: It takes time to observe birds in action. It is preferred to approach the birds slowly and quietly so as not to flee the landing site. Bird activity starts early in the morning and therefore this is the most appropriate time to start birding.
– Hire a Local Guide: The most important advice I have for the readers of this article is that it is advisable to hire a local birding guide. They have important information about bird species, their vocalization, where to watch them and so much more.
– Respect Wildlife: One has to refrain from getting too close to the birds and their nests at any given time. Minimize close encounters that are likely to alter their behavior or destroy their habitat.
Top Spots for Bird Watching in Rwanda: Conclusion
That’s why birdwatching in Rwanda is one of the greatest ways to reveal examples of the unique flora and fauna as well as to enjoy the astonishing views of Rwandan territories. Rwanda has many types of habitats and is home to many bird species which makes it a bird-watching enthusiasts’ delight. Whether experts at bird watching or tourists casually observing the birds, one would not leave the prime areas of bird watching in Rwanda without making the most of the great memories and fascination towards the amazing avian species of this wonderful country. Gather your binoculars, check out these great trips, and be ready to immerse yourself into the magic of bird watching in Rwanda.
